SUBSEA EXPLOSION OFF NORFOLK COAST

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: february 2022 :: RMTnews 10 T he Seacat Sceptre is the latest vessel design for the offshore wind support sector which uses hydrofoils designed and developed in high-end yacht racing. The vessel, developed by Chartwell Marine, will now undergo sea trials prior to its handover to offshore energy support vessel (OESV) operator, Seacat Services. Hydrofoils lift the hull in the water in transit to reduce frictional resistance, thereby improving energy efficiency and stability. The Foil Optimisation and Stability System (FOSS), developed and patented by BAR Technologies, combines their America’s Cup expertise with Chartwell’s high-speed vessel design to resolve the mounting emissions and energy efficiency challenges facing the offshore energy support sector. T he Marine Accident Investigation Branch, which investigates marine accidents in UK territorial waters, has released its report on a subsea explosion, near Cromer, Norfolk. On 15 December 2020 the crab potting vessel Galwad-Y- Mor was hauling pots in the North Sea approximately 22 miles north-east of Cromer. The crabbing gear disturbed a 250kg unexploded WWII bomb, which detonated on the seabed below the vessel. The ensuing explosion caused a shock wave that threw Galwad-Y-Mor about, resulting in significant injuries to five of the seven crew and major damage to the vessel’s hull and machinery. Despite their injuries, Galwad-Y-Mor’s crew were able to send a distress message and board rescue boats that had been dispatched by a nearby offshore support vessel. The injured crew were transferred to hospital by helicopter and RNLI lifeboat. They were treated for head, back and knee injuries. Galwad Y Mor was successfully salvaged and has been rebuilt. The key safety issues identified were that unexploded ordnance can be highly volatile even after many years of being submersed. The vessels crew could not have anticipated the fouling of a bomb in the potting string and the resulting explosion; their training, experience and emergency preparedness improved their chances of survival. SUBSEA EXPLOSION OFF NORFOLK COAST OFFSHORE WIND SUPPORT VESSEL GOES HYDROFOIL